"Israeli Forces Close In on Gaza City, Street-to-Street Battle Looms"

Israeli Forces Close In on Gaza City as Hamas Prepares for Street-to-Street Battle In a dramatic escalation of the conflict, Israeli forces have neared the center of Gaza City, prompting Hamas to prepare for intense street-to-street fighting, according to reports. Thousands of Palestinians have been forced to flee the city since Israel launched its ground offensive last week. The Israeli military has described Gaza City as Hamas' "last stronghold," with the aim of "eliminating terrorists" and rescuing its 48 remaining hostages, 20 of whom are thought to be alive. The BBC has verified footage of an Israeli tank at Hamid Junction, around 1 kilometer from the city center. According to the Israeli military, their forces have made significant gains in recent days, paving the way for a ground assault with large-scale air strikes and demolitions of tower blocks. However, the densely populated urban areas pose a significant risk to civilians, with experts warning of potential heavy casualties. "This is a very complex and challenging operation," said an Israeli military spokesperson, according to BBC World. "We are doing everything we can to minimize harm to civilians, but ultimately, our goal is to eliminate Hamas' terrorist capabilities." Hamas fighters have reportedly regrouped amid fears of intense street-to-street fighting, with the group's leaders urging its members to prepare for a prolonged battle. However, the exact number of Hamas fighters in Gaza City remains unclear. The humanitarian situation in Gaza has worsened significantly since Israel launched its ground offensive last week. According to UN estimates, over 10,000 Palestinians have been displaced, with many forced to flee their homes without access to basic necessities like food and water. As the situation escalates, international leaders are calling for a ceasefire and increased aid to the region. The United States has condemned the violence, urging both sides to "exercise restraint" and prioritize civilian safety. The current status of the conflict remains fluid, with Israeli forces continuing their push into Gaza City. As the battle rages on, concerns about civilian casualties and humanitarian access continue to grow. In a statement, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) warned that the situation in Gaza is "deteriorating rapidly," with many civilians trapped in the midst of the conflict. The ICRC has called for increased access to medical care and other essential services. As the world watches the unfolding drama in Gaza, one thing remains clear: the fate of thousands of Palestinians hangs in the balance. With Israeli forces closing in on Gaza City and Hamas preparing for street-to-street fighting, the coming days will be critical in determining the outcome of this devastating conflict. This story was compiled from reports by BBC World and BREAKING: BBC Breaking.